Jewish Weddings and

Jewish Interfaith Weddings

When two people pledge their lives to each other, they often think of it as the most important day of their lives. Perhaps just as accurately, we can say it’s among the first of many important days to come. When I work with a wedding couple, I want to help make it a memorable, special day that reflects the uniqueness of the individuals getting married as well as the traditions that are important to them.

A Jewish wedding is rich with traditions. I believe that it is important for a modern couple who is going to be married to understand each of the traditions and symbols of the wedding. At the wedding itself, I offer brief teachings and explanations of the symbols so the guests feel part of the ceremony. The spirit of the ceremony will include the spirit of the couple. Each wedding is as unique as the people getting married. Some prefer a more formal approach; some like a relaxed ceremony with some humor infused. As we get to know each other through the process of planning, the wedding will be about you and your connection to each other as well as the connection to tradition.

Interfaith Weddings

I don’t tell people who to marry or what to believe. If two people from different faiths pledge their love to each other, that’s a beautiful thing, regardless of religious differences. When you begin with a foundation of communication and respect, differences can enhance a relationship rather than detract from it. I encourage communication and listening.

I believe strongly that if we hope for Judaism to be represented in the marriage, then it ought to be represented in the wedding. Interfaith weddings should reflect values and traditions for both people who are getting married. These values are as unique as the individual bride and groom.

After working with several dozen couples over the years, I feel confident in my ability to make everyone feel comfortable. I am comfortable officiating an interfaith wedding “flying solo” or working with clergy from other faiths.

I prefer to meet in person with a prospective wedding couple, but if that is not possible, a phone interview is acceptable. It’s important for a couple to feel comfortable with the person who is sanctifying their marriage.

I begin with this premise: It’s your wedding, not mine.

Awesome in Austin

I’ll explain to you the traditions and their meanings; together, we decide what’s important to you. Many times, we can create a beautiful blend of different traditions. Wedding rituals from other faiths often have a parallel in the Jewish wedding service. I like to find those connections to emphasize that the bride and groom are blending their pasts to form one family that honors where each of them has begun.

Same Gender Weddings

The same holds true, in my opinion, for people of the same gender who love each other. As everyone now knows, U.S. Supreme Court has acknowledged that loving, committed partners have an equal right to marry. I find it a unique honor to be able to sanctify the love and devotion for same-sex couples, spiritually and legally.

Prepare and Enrich – spiritually planning for the marriage

Rabbi Dan Gordon is a trained facilitator affiliated with “Prepare/Enrich: Building Strong Marriages.” This program is personalized for each couple, utilizing both technology and interpersonal communication. Rabbi Dan will guide you through exercises and activities that will be both fun and enriching. For more information, visit www.prepare-enrich.com

Special Circumstances

I have dealt with a wide variety unique weddings and ceremonies. I enjoy the challenge of making every ceremony unique and special for every couple. After over 200 weddings, I still won’t say, “I’ve seen it all!”